Spokane River Flows Meet Level 2 Drought Response

Spokane City Council's 2022 water conservation ordinance triggers Level 2 watering restrictions following Spokane River levels dropping below 1,000 cubic feet per second. The new rules prohibit outdoor watering between 10 a. m. and 6 p. m.

, limit watering to two days per week, and restrict total watering to two hours daily. Public Works Director Marlene Feist underscores the community's role in safeguarding the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer through conservation efforts. Residents can access the Water Wise Spokane program for free indoor and outdoor water consultations. Spokane's summer water use is four times greater than the national average, highlighting the urgency of these measures. Since its inception, the Water Wise Spokane program has saved over 344 million gallons of water through education and outreach.

Community engagement led to a notable 45. 5 million gallons saved in 2024, showcasing the impact of collective action. These efforts are critical for maintaining local water sources and ensuring sustainable water use in the region.